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Manchester Victoria reveals plans of £44m revamp

Rail bosses have revealed what Manchester Victoria train station will look like after its £44m renovation started on Monday.

Network Rail said the new roof, which can be seen in the artist’s impression above, will bring the station up to 21st century standards and turn it into a major regional interchange.

The project will also feature a more open concourse, new ticket office, information booth, waiting room and toilets.

Some of the station’s period features, such as the glazed canopy at the front of the building, will be carefully restored along with the scheme’s more modern aspects.

Network Rail said a key priority was to keep the station open and running while work is being carried out, although passengers have been advised some thoroughfares need to be changed.

Councillor Andrew Fender, Chair of the TfGM Committee, said: “While it is a very popular station, Manchester Victoria is still punching below its weight.

“It’s been prevented from achieving its full potential – particularly in architectural terms – because of a lack of investment in recent years.

“So I am delighted that work is now beginning to transform it into an outstanding, heavyweight destination befitting its heritage and its strategic importance both now and long into the future.”

Major changes to the station include a footbridge that will allow for growth in passenger numbers, a revamp of retail spaces as well as new shopping units and upgraded Metrolink facilities.

The project will future-proof the station to allow for the imminent electrification of the Liverpool line and improvements that will be made to services from the Northern Hub rail capacity expansion scheme.

Numbers of passengers could double by 2019 as a result of the Northern Hub, with faster and more frequent trains to Leeds and Liverpool.

Lee Wasnidge, Area Director, Northern Rail said: “Complementing the wider Northern Hub and electrification capacity enhancements, these improvements will ensure that Manchester Victoria provides a fitting gateway to the city.

“This scheme will preserve the heritage of the station while providing a bright and modern environment for passengers.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Miranda Dobson .